President’s Report

AMY LEON | SDML PRESIDENT

I like change. As long as I don’t have to do anything different.

That is probably true for a lot of us. Two years ago, we all took Tylenol when we had a headache. Now our residents can flash a medical cannabis card and heal ailments with an array of infused creams and elixirs. I won’t even mention the other “C-word.” We are all still dealing with the effects of that one going viral.

We’ve experienced transition within city staffs. Many who were eligible to retire did (I can’t tell you how much Hy-Vee cake I’ve ingested in the last 52 payrolls), and some people made the personal choice that public service is no longer a fit.

Recently, I have been doing some self-study and have figured out a system that works for me. I hope it is helpful. The first thing I do is acknowledge change is happening. By pointing it out, I can prepare. I actually send myself an email and calendar notice about the change occurring. The calendar notice helps me mentally set a timeline for transition.

When change slaps me in the face unexpectedly (thanks, derecho!) I text myself #betyoudidn’tseethatonecomingleon with the appropriate wingdings and emojis. It helps me mentally reset quickly.

Once acknowledgement takes place, I find gratitude. Being thankful provides the ability to reflect on what was experienced and can also be cathartic. Expressing how a colleague contributed to the team or what I learned from them, for example, has made me appreciate my time with the city and has sent them off feeling valued. Next, I communicate and ask for what I need. In 2020, I lost a parent. I asked trusted members of my team to help me make some decisions and asked my elected officials for patience during the grieving process. After all, it’s hard to think critically about a medical cannabis ordinance when you’re making tearful visits to the Land of 10,000 Casseroles.

Lastly, and I think this is the most difficult step, is open up to receive. This is sort of the “door closes/a window opens” theory. Something new is waiting for us when things change, and if we allow space for it, that something will reveal itself.

SDML is changing too. As we wish Yvonne farewell and thank her, I look forward to embracing our new executive director. I am stepping into the role as president and have big shoes to fill in Mayor Allender’s stead. Change is here.

Thanks for trusting me to serve as the President of SDML. This organization has been a source of professional growth and personal support the entire time I have been in government, and I am forever in debt. I ask you as friends and professionals to help me lead. Communicate with me and give me the feedback I need to better serve the membership. Together we will find new ways to build our communities and thrive. ■